There is ongoing scientific research on the benefits of massage therapy. Some of the current findings include:
Pain relief: Massage therapy has been found to be effective in reducing chronic pain, including lower back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis.
Stress reduction: Massage therapy has been shown to reduce levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and to increase feelings of relaxation and well-being.
Improved sleep: Massage therapy has been shown to improve sleep quality and duration, particularly in people with insomnia.
Improved range of motion and flexibility: Massage therapy has been shown to improve flexibility and range of motion, making it particularly useful for people with conditions such as fibromyalgia and myofascial pain
Improved athletic performance: Massage therapy has been shown to improve athletic performance by reducing muscle soreness and stiffness, and improving recovery time after exercise.
It's important to note that the benefits of massage therapy can vary from person to person, and that more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind its effects. References
The Rise of Massage Therapy in Pain Management | Massage Therapy Journal. (n.d.). American Massage Therapy Association. https://www.amtamassage.org/publications/massage-therapy-journal/massage-therapy-in-pain-management/
Nazari, Fateme, et al. “The Effect of Massage Therapy on Occupational Stress of Intensive Care Unit Nurses.” Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4525352/
Sable, Amol, et al. “Effectiveness of Back Massage on Sleep Pattern among Patients with Congestive Cardiac Failure.” Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5637143/
Yeun, Young-Ran. “Effectiveness of Massage Therapy on the Range of Motion of the Shoulder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Feb. 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5333006/
Davis, Holly Louisa, et al. “Effect of Sports Massage on Performance and Recovery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine, BMJ Specialist Journals, 1 May 2020, https://bmjopensem.bmj.com/content/6/1/e000614